Exploration of the elements of American musical theatre. History, relevance to the theatre movement, and the collaboration process of playwrights, composers, lyricists, directors, choreographers, conductors, actors, designers and technicians are introduced. 

Artistic method of improvisation focusing on the individual and ensemble exploring spontaneity, group cohesion and trust, pantomime skills, characterization and performance. Both comedic and dramatic improvisation are explored.

Study of the elements of drama through close readings of works from various ages and countries.

Speech theory and technique designed to improve a stage actor’s vocal quality which may include breath, production, articulation and phonetics. Prerequisite: TE141 or consent of instructor. 

Deeper exploration into the technique of acting using method and non-method approaches to monologue and scene study. A more specific focus on vocal and physical awareness, character work, bold acting choices and genre. Rehearsal outside of class is required. Prerequisite: TE141 or consent of instructor.

Introduction to the art of directing focusing on composition, picturization, audition, staging, dramatic rhythm and pace, rehearsal technique and leadership qualities. The course culminates with student directed ten-minute plays. Rehearsals outside of class are required. Prerequisite: TE242 or consent of instructor. 

Exploration of various technical aspects of theatrical production which may include scenery and property construction (metalwork, painting and rigging), lighting and sound, costuming, and make-up. Scene shop laboratory hours may be required. 

The shadowing of a design professional (set, lighting, costume, sound, props, stage management or technical direction) working on a mainstage production. The student may be called upon to assist the mentor in various capacities. Observations are recorded in a journal and checked by/discussed by the mentor. May be repeated with different subject areas or different mentors. Pre-req: TE130 or program chairperson permission.

Introduction to ballet including body position, terms and beginning sequences designed to increase strength and flexibility.

Theatrical movement techniques designed to break physical habits, release tension, explore physical character, increase strength and flexibility, begin aerobic activity and may introduce classical styles. Prerequisite: TE141 or consent of instructor. 

Acting technique open to explore major period styles and genres. Rehearsals outside of class are required. Prerequisites: TE141, TE241 or consent of instructor; can be repeated once

Exploring the professional theatre and film audition by focusing on material selection and preparation, appearance, impression, and headshot/resume techniques. Prerequisite: TE141 or consent of instructor. 

Concentrative study on a rotating area of theatrical design or technical study, including set, costume, lighting or sound design, stage management, props design and construction, make-up design or technical direction. Scene shop hours may be required. May be repeated twice for credit. Prerequisite: TE251

Survey from Greek theatre to the closing of the theatres in Commonwealth England (1642). Designed to familiarize the student with various periods of theatre history, both the physical aspects and the genre of drama that evolved from each period. Readings of representative plays are required.

Explores dramatic texts intended for child audiences. Introduction to performance techniques for YA audiences as well as to major contributors to the field of children’s theatre. Performances may be required. Prerequisite: TE141 or Consent of instructor

Individually negotiated project in student’s area of interest established by contract with instructor. One semester hour is required for the theatre major designed to prepare students entering the theatre profession or graduate school. The project may focus on life in the theatre, portfolios, resumes, job search, audition material, agents, casting directors and the local and national theatre scene. Contracts are filed with the Registrar. Prerequisite: Consent of theatre director. 

Introduction to the reading and study of Shakespearean tragedy, comedy and tragi-comedy. Prerequisite: EH221 or EH/TE217 with a grade of C or higher.

A high-intensity studio acting course that serves as both a scene-study studio and as a survey of contemporary playwrights and dramatic literature. Up to 36 plays/playwrights are sampled from and assigned as scenes with rotating teams of partners for in class workshop and critique from both peers and the instructor. May be repeated once for credit. Pre-req: TE 241